Published
10/01/2026 às 08:54
Mosquitoes of the species Culiseta annulata have been identified for the first time in Iceland, signaling measurable changes in the regional climate.
For centuries, Iceland was seen as one of the few places on the planet free of mosquitoes, thanks to its geographical isolation and extreme temperatures. This scenario changed with the confirmation of… unprecedented presence of mosquitoes living in the country., a fact that breaks through an environmental barrier considered natural.
The record goes beyond scientific curiosity. It reveals a concrete transformation in the environment, with direct impacts on climate balance and local ecosystemsThis shows that even historically protected regions are not beyond the reach of global changes.
The discovery involves active mosquitoes adapted to the Icelandic environment, not just insects brought in occasionally. This reinforces the warning about the real possibility of the species remaining in the territory.
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What happened in Iceland and why is the mosquito outbreak drawing attention?
Culiseta annulata
The insects were found in Kiðafell, in the municipality of Kjós, in southern Iceland, in mid-October. Three specimens were captured in homemade traps, confirming biological activity outside the historical pattern of the region.
The identification revealed the species. Culiseta annulata, known for its resistance to cold and common in northern Europe. The episode marked the First official documentation of live mosquitoes adapted to the Icelandic climate., something unprecedented until then.
Before this, only inactive specimens occasionally appeared on aircraft. Their active presence completely changes the environmental perception of the country.
Why is the Culiseta annulata species able to survive extreme cold?
A Culiseta annulata It possesses natural mechanisms that allow it to withstand long periods of low temperatures. The species is able to hibernate in enclosed spaces such as basements, stables, and warehouses, where the intense cold is mitigated.
This behavior increases the chances of survival during the Icelandic winter. With adequate shelter and less severe temperatures, the mosquito’s life cycle can be completed.
This capacity opens up opportunities for the emergence of stable colonies, something previously considered unlikely in the territory.
How regional warming has created favorable conditions for mosquitoes
The Arctic region is experiencing accelerated warming., occurring up to four times faster than the rest of the planetThis process has been altering Iceland’s climate, resulting in milder winters and longer thaw periods.
The change directly affects the presence of liquid water, which is essential for the development of the larvae. With less freezing time, the environment becomes viable for insect reproduction.
This new climate pattern favors not only mosquitoes, but also other species previously incompatible with the region.
The possible route by which mosquitoes enter Icelandic territory.
The area where the insects were found is near the port of Grundartangi, which receives frequent traffic of ships and containers. This type of movement facilitates the accidental arrival of foreign species.
However, transportation alone does not explain the survival of mosquitoes. Without favorable environmental conditions, the insects would not be able to remain active.
The decisive factor involves the combination of global circulation and progressively higher temperatures, which reduce the country’s natural barriers.
Other environmental signs that accompany this climate change.
Besides mosquitoes, warming is already causing visible changes in Iceland. The country is registering retreat of glaciers and the increasing presence of marine species typical of warmer waters, such as the cabala.
These signs indicate a gradual reorganization of ecosystems. New species are finding space, while traditional environments are losing stability.
The combination of changes points to a structural transformation of the Icelandic climate.
The presence of Culiseta annulata It functions as a clear environmental warning.The adaptation of insects to a territory can generate chain effects, impacting fauna, flora, and the natural balance.
The possibility of permanent establishment requires continuous attention. With milder weather, new species may emerge, altering known patterns.
Even remote regions are showing increasing vulnerability. Iceland is now part of the group of territories directly affected by global climate change, with consequences that are likely to intensify over time.